Swiss agricultural policy

MEADOWS TO FULFIL VARIOUS 
REQUIREMENTS
Specifically designed seed mix: Depending on what 
is needed, the quality of the fodder or the ecological
value of meadows is improved.
Passing on knowledge
Thanks to the system for passing
on agricultural knowledge the 
results of research and political
stipulations regarding agriculture
can be quickly implemented. The
system involves the three areas 
of research, training and exten-
sion and the aim is to promote 
sustainable agriculture. Basic re-
search is carried out at the De-
partment of Agricultural and Food
Sciences at the Zurich Federal In-
stitute of Technology and applied
research at agricultural colleges
and federal research stations
which report to the Federal Office
for Agriculture. Training and ex-
tension services are provided by
the cantonal authorities, both
a reas being subsidised from pu-
blic funds.
As a result of considerable economic pressure often only the most productive varieties of
plants are grown. This leads to a drop in genetic diversity in cultivated plants. Old varieties
are becoming rarer and with them local knowledge and corresponding traditions.
The aim of the Inventory of Plant Varieties in Southern Switzerland is to discover rare 
varieties of vegetables, cereals and potatoes in that part of the country. Through the media
the population has been urged to register rare varieties. Another part of the project is to
test methods of tapping into local knowledge. Village markets have proved to be an excellent
source. A very special variety of buckwheat was discovered on the market in Brusio in 
Poschiavo, for example. And in a remote valley in the Ticino, in a former shop which used
to sell seed, various types of beans came to light. These seeds have now been planted 
in a special garden. Other interesting findings involve varieties of rye and maize.
Genetic resources